Building Inspections

Jade · Apr 28, 2008 11:42 am

Maybe a silly question, but this is the first time we have built and we don't have any experience to fall back on. Question:

Is it common to engage your own independent building inspector to inspect at each of the stages? Or would this be an unnecessary cost given that there are the standard authority inspections during the build?

Purpose would be to ensure quality and correct finishes are achieved, and as neither myself or my husband are experts in building we could quite likely miss something during our inspections

If it is a good idea to enlist one, what is the average cost per inspection?

Additonally any recommendations if this is the way to go. We are building on the Sunshine Coast?

Paula · Apr 28, 2008 12:00 pm

Firstly welcome,

Secondly LOVE your dog, looks cuddly

Thirdly, do a search about building inspections with the search tool, this has been discussed alot. (no direct experiecne so cant really comment).

to_do_list · Apr 28, 2008 12:32 pm

Welcome to the forum.....we want photos....we're a mad bunch.... Like ⋅ Add a comment ⋅ Pin to Ideaboard ⋅

We used an independent building inspector (eight years ago) at the contract stage, foundation, and frame....

At the contract stage helped us interpret some of the more nebulous HIA/MBAV standard contract clauses....and that they don't have to be standard. Provided advice on dealing with the builder...and some of the common issues which we would encounter...although I think a perusal of HomeOne will cover most of those..

And whilst we had a generally good building experience, the inspector picked up a few things we didn't even though I was pretty nit-picky. Did I get my money's worth?....some may think not but I think so...but it's also hard to value peace of mind.

BestBuilder · Apr 29, 2008 9:48 am

Hi Jade

Building Inspection will generally pick up items you would otherwise miss. It is up to you how often then check, so its a balance between cost and level of detail.

When deciding, remember that it will be hard to fix structural problems if your inspection is just at handover, so it may be worth at least one once brickwork is done, and another at final inspection as a start point. It is also worthwhile having a legal review of your contract before you sign to avoid pitfalls. Industry standard contracts often are still found wanting.

Using an independent qualified inspection also keeps the builder on their toes as these inspections also assist should you need to take the builder to the tribunal or court. But lets hope you do not need to do that!

All the best with you building project and it would be great to hear how you go.

Regards

Jade · Apr 30, 2008 1:50 pm

Hi guys

Don't have much to show in the way of photos. We have been caught up with lots of delays from the builder. BUT our framing and trusses have been delivered and the frame is scheduled to start end of next week. However we have found scheduled dates are sometimes a hit or miss, one wet day and it will throw everything out

So excited about our new home, this is our first and its on my mind constantly

Thanks for the replies to my query re: building inspections. Will discuss more with other half